This course will consider a variety of advanced topics in moral theory, with special focus on the following areas: the nature and psychology of moral or rational agency, the nature of emotion and its role in morality, and the nature of value and judgment. Our readings will include historical and contemporary works in philosophy, and also draw upon contemporary research in psychology and neuroscience.

Course Requirements:

Students will be expected to come to class having done the reading and prepared to discuss it. Two five-page papers will be required, as well as a midterm and final exam. Exam topics and suggested paper topics will be distributed in advance.

Intended Audience:

Open to students who have already taken introductory coursework in moral philosophy, or who have done related work in other disciplines, such as psychology, political science, anthropology, or economics. Some background in moral philosophy will be presupposed; PHIL 361 is an excellent preparation.

Syllabi are available to current LSA students. IMPORTANT: These syllabi are provided to give students a general idea about the courses, as offered by LSA departments and programs in prior academic terms. The syllabi do not necessarily reflect the assignments, sequence of course materials, and/or course expectations that the faculty and departments/programs have for these same courses in the current and/or future terms.